The 3rd Symposium on Integrated Observing Systems

2.2
A HIGHLY MOBILE INTEGRATED OBSERVING SYSTEM

J Cogan, Information Science & Technology Directorate, ARL, WSMR, NM; and E. Measure, E. Vidal, G. Vaucher, E. Creegan, B. Weber, and D. Wolfe

The prototype Meteorological Measurement Set - Profiler (MMS-P) represents a major step forward in that a suite of remote sensing instruments combined with a meteorological satellite receiver replaces the rawinsonde system of current mobile systems, and the on-board meteorological model allows analyses and forecasts over mesoscale areas. It has increased mobility and additional capability relative to previous "mobile" radar profilers. The primary remote measurement instruments are a wind profiling radar and a passive microwave radiometer for temperature profiles. A new Semi-Automated Meteorological Station (SMS) now in production measures surface meteorological values, and a GPS receiver provides accurate location information and offers the potential of providing continuous integrated precipitable water measurements. Atmospheric profiles from the ground-based sensors are combined with soundings generated from meteorological satellite data to form merged soundings that can extend from the surface to about 30 km. Soundings are generated in close to real-time, and the radar data are processed using new versions of advanced techniques previously used for off-line analysis. The current prototype also has a GPS rawinsonde capability to provide comparison data, and can fill in for the satellite soundings if needed. The entire system fits in a shelter carried by a High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) plus a trailer for the radar. A separate vehicle tows a "silent" generator. This paper briefly describes the latest version of the prototype system and presents samples of output. Preliminary comparisons with rawinsonde data suggest the accuracy of the resultant merged profiles. Emphasis is placed on data from the current system and planned upgrades

The 3rd Symposium on Integrated Observing Systems